Building ‘showing signs of collapse’ after huge fire in Liverpool | Liverpool

A building is “showing signs of collapse” after a huge fire in Liverpool city centre.

Firefighters were called to the blaze on Fox Street shortly before 2.20pm on Saturday and arrived to find a four-storey building “well alight”.

The building was showing signs of collapse and fire crews were evacuating buildings, Merseyside fire and rescue service said.

Shoppers watched plumes spread across the city centre and the smoke could be seen rising above Goodison Park during Everton’s FA Cup tie against Luton Town.

The fire service is urging people to avoid the area and nearby residents and businesses to close windows and doors.

A statement on Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service’s website read: “Fire crews have been called to a large fire on Fox Street, Liverpool city centre, L3.

“Twelve fire engines and two aerial appliances are in attendance. Crews were alerted at 2.18pm and on scene at 2.23pm. Crews arrived to find a four-storey building 100 metres by 50 metres well alight.

“The incident has been divided into sectors, with firefighters wearing breathing apparatus fighting the fire with main branch hoses. The building is showing signs of collapse and fire crews are evacuating buildings.

“The incident is ongoing. Please avoid the area. Residents and businesses nearby should close windows and doors. If you have an existing health condition, keep medicines nearby and if any ill effects occur dial NHS 111 for advice.”